Your Guide to a Magical Day Out in Kent This December

If you are looking for a Christmas day out that feels truly enchanting, Christmas at Bewl Water returns this December with a brand-new adventure for families to enjoy. Set in our enchanted woodland near Lamberhurst, on the Kent and Sussex border, Santa's Quest brings storytelling, live performances and Christmas joy together in one festive journey.

This is more than a visit to see Father Christmas. It is an immersive adventure where children play a real role in the story, helping Santa and his elves restore Christmas cheer at Bewl Water.

Here is everything you need to know to plan your visit.

Step into Santa's Quest

Your adventure begins when you check in and set off to discover the unusual happenings in Bewl Water's woodland this year. As Cheer Champions, your family will be invited to help restore Christmas cheer.

Along the way you will find hands-on workshops, from decorating shortbread in Rosemary's Bakery and building sleigh ornaments in the Elves' Workshop to mixing reindeer food at Prancer's Pantry and sending wishes to Santa from Dash's Post Office. Santa's merry elves bring it all to life with interactive live performances, cheer chants and playful panto-style moments.

The Quest itself lasts just under two hours, and we recommend allowing around three hours in total so families can relax and enjoy the experience together.

Meet Father Christmas in His Grotto

No Christmas adventure would be complete without meeting the man himself. Each family enjoys a private, personalised visit with Father Christmas. When you book, you are invited to share your child's name, age and a little about their hobbies and interests, so Father Christmas can make the moment feel truly personal.

The visit is exclusive to your family's booking, with up to eight guests at a time and no strangers. Children can chat, share their wishes and feel truly seen and celebrated.

Each child chooses a gift from the Toy Exchange, and official grotto photographs are available to purchase after your visit so you can treasure the memory. For even more magic, the Mrs Claus Enhanced Experience adds a private meet-and-greet with Mrs Claus, priority access to workshops and performances and a complimentary souvenir photo from your Santa visit.

Food, Play and Staying Warm

When the Quest is over, the Candy Land Food Court is the place to refuel, with street food, festive treats, hot drinks, mulled wine and cider. Gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan options are available on request. While grown-ups relax, little ones can enjoy the Candy Land play frame. Christmas at Bewl Water is a cashless event.

Most of the experience is under cover and runs come rain, shine or snow, but some areas are outdoors and not every covered section is heated. Wrap up warm, wear sturdy footwear and feel free to come dressed in your Christmas best.

Good to Know Before You Go

• Dates: selected dates from 28 November to 24 December 2026
• Where: Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent TN3 8JH, just off the A21
• Parking: one free parking ticket is included with every booking
• Arrival: please arrive five minutes before your booked time slot
• Ages: designed for believers of all ages, with our recommendation being 1 to 11 years
• Booking: tickets must be booked online in advance

You will find more answers in our FAQ, and our team is happy to help at christmas@bewlwater.co.uk.

Make It a Day to Remember

Visit our website and press Book Now to choose your date, and make memories that will stay with your family for years to come.